Blog Archives

Unconditional Love

Tasha-Nicole Terani Author Interview

A Tree For Me shares the story of a child and their bond with their favorite tree and the unconditional love they have for one another. What was the inspiration for your story?

The inspiration for my poem comes from my childhood. The illustrations depict a tree that I visited as a young girl, tirelessly searching for unconditional love. While working on my memoir, I recalled this beautiful oak tree and the deep sense of love I felt in its presence. Those memories flooded back, and I began to speak them out loud! My tree was always there for me—strong, steady, and a source of unconditional love. This realization shifted my focus from my memoir to a message meant for children: a message of love and acceptance. I wanted to help guide children to find this unconditional love within themselves early on, just as I did. As someone who was orphaned and adopted into a family where I didn’t quite fit, finding that love within was my saving grace.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

The core idea is that the love we seek from the outside world must first be nurtured within ourselves. We often need to face our reflections much earlier in life than we might wish to.

The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Karine Makartichan?

Karine and I clicked right from our first collaboration. I shared my vision for the book, and she grasped it immediately. It felt like a perfect partnership, allowing us to bring the story to life beautifully.

What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?

A Tree for Me is the first in the Nature and Nurture series, and I’m excited to share that the next book,

A Flower for You, is on the horizon and coming soon!

Author Links: GoodReads | Shopify

A Tree for Me

Loneliness often creeps into our lives, but nature, with its quiet marvels, always surrounds us. A Tree for Me by Tasha-Nicole Terani captures this truth with grace and depth. Through a delicately illustrated poem, she celebrates the steadfast qualities of a tree ever-present, unwavering, protective, and free from judgment. These traits offer young readers a gentle yet profound lesson: to appreciate themselves, connect with their surroundings, and find peace in moments of reflection. The book reminds us that even the simplest virtues can nurture personal growth. At its heart, it encourages independence, teaching that true self-worth arises from within, not from the validation of others.

Terani’s personal touch permeates the story. Her words transform the tree into a symbol of inspiration and empowerment, embodying resilience and a deep reverence for nature. The poem invites readers to cherish life’s small joys while fostering confidence and optimism. Her choice of language is particularly striking—melodic, soothing, and perfectly aligned with the book’s moral and educational themes. It offers more than a narrative; it’s an invitation to embrace solitude and discover the joy of outdoor play. Though succinct, the story carries remarkable thematic depth, leaving readers with a message of self-love and gratitude for life’s accessible treasures. The illustrations enhance the book’s tranquil tone with serene landscapes, soft hues, and a peaceful atmosphere. They harmonize beautifully with the rhythmic poem, although their number and variety feel somewhat limited. A touch more visual diversity would have added an extra layer of richness. The verses themselves are brief and accessible, making them ideal for young readers or shared moments of quiet reflection. While the brevity of the book leaves one wishing for a more developed resolution or storyline, its simplicity also works in its favor. It’s perfect for creating a calming experience with children.

A Tree for Me delivers a heartfelt and enduring message: in our quest for love and acceptance, the greatest discoveries often lie within. Terani’s work is a celebration of inner strength and the beauty of self-discovery, reminding readers to nurture their souls and find joy in the world around them.

Pages: 22 | ISBN : 9798218966249

A Tree for Me

In A Tree For Me, a young child ventures outdoors to visit their beloved tree, a steadfast companion under any sky. This tender narrative beautifully captures the profound bond between a child and nature, illustrating the enduring power of unconditional love and acceptance. Unconditional love is a universal need. Whether through family or friendships, we all yearn for genuine connections that allow us to give and receive love freely. The pursuit of such unwavering acceptance often spans a lifetime. In today’s world—shaped by the echoes of isolation, grief, and loneliness—many struggle to break free from unseen barriers. Tasha-Nicole Terani’s A Tree for Me addresses these struggles with grace and simplicity, reminding readers that love can appear in the most unexpected forms.

The story’s quiet brilliance lies in its simplicity. The child and their tree communicate without words. They ask nothing of one another, existing in mutual understanding and complete acceptance. The whimsical illustrations by Karine Makartichan amplify this message, evoking the charm of childhood art while perfectly complementing the book’s heartfelt themes. As someone navigating the depths of grief after losing a person who offered me unconditional acceptance, this book resonates deeply. It reminds me that the love and understanding I seek are already present, waiting for me to embrace them. Like the child and their tree, I need only to be myself to find peace.

A Tree For Me is more than a children’s story; it is a timeless ode to the human desire for connection and self-acceptance. Suitable for all ages and life stages, it offers comfort and inspiration to anyone searching for love, belonging, or solace. Parents, educators, and readers of every background will find in this book a treasure of wisdom and warmth. It reminds us that we are never truly alone and that embracing ourselves as we are is a powerful act of love.

Pages: 22 | ISBN : 9798218966249